From 1909 until 1963, the South Dakota SD flag had two sides - the state seal on one and a large golden sun with lettering around it on the reverse. But when it was decided to keep just one, the designs were combined. The original design was by Senator Ernest May and Doane Robinson, secretary of the State Historical Society. The redesign was done by Will Robinson, Doane Robinson's son. The seal shows a farmer and a rancher, depicting the kind of work of the people of South Dakota. The trees represent the lumber industry, and the river and steamboat, transportation and trade. The gold band is a reminder of the state's nickname.South Dakota State Flag Adopted: 1963